Learn about this topic in these articles:

definition

…about a northern or southern celestial pole, the projection into space of Earth’s own poles. Equidistant from the two poles is the celestial equator; this great circle is the projection into space of Earth’s Equator.

position on celestial sphere

…at the north and south celestial poles, around which the heavens seem to turn. The plane of the Earth’s Equator, extended to infinity, marks the celestial equator. See also hour circle; ecliptic; zenith.

precession of the equinoxes

…directions: the north and south celestial poles. Because of precession, these points trace out circles on the sky. Today the north celestial pole points to within just 1° of the arc of Polaris. It will point closest to Polaris about 2100 ce. In 12,000 years the north celestial pole will…

Inspire your inbox –
Sign up for daily fun facts about this day in history, updates, and special offers.

By signing up for this email, you are agreeing to news, offers, and information from Encyclopaedia Britannica.
Click here to view our Privacy Notice. Easy unsubscribe links are provided in every email.

Thank you for subscribing!

Be on the lookout for your Britannica newsletter to get trusted stories delivered right to your inbox.